City walls in Caen

The city walls of Caen are a series of defensive structures made of stone walls, towers, and gates surrounding the center of the city. This network of fortifications spans different areas and can be partially explored on foot through the urban landscape.

William the Conqueror had these walls built between 1060 and 1080 to establish Caen as an important Norman stronghold. The fortifications evolved over centuries and continue to shape the city's appearance today.

The walls connect three major centers: the ducal castle, the Abbaye aux Hommes, and the Abbaye aux Dames, showing how the medieval city developed around these important sites. Today you can see while walking how these religious and secular buildings shaped the rhythm of urban life.

The walls are accessible from various points throughout the city, and you can walk at your own pace to explore different sections. Information panels help you understand the medieval structure without requiring any special equipment or prior knowledge.

The walls have been enhanced with modern technology that uses digital 3D models to bring medieval Caen to life. These reconstructions show how the city appeared hundreds of years ago and offer visitors an unexpected bridge between past and present.

Location: Caen

GPS coordinates: 49.18642,-0.36323

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:42